The latest Nautitech model, the 48 Open, completes the range which until now has comprised just 2 models, the 40 and 44, both available under the Open name. This concept, launched by Nautitech, consists of reducing saloon space by moving the aft bulkhead to increase cockpit volume. A system of large sliding doors to open the saloon ensures continuity between inside and outside. This concept is still in use today on the 48.
Traditional helm stations
Access to the boat is via the two wide aft skirts. The helm stations are positioned off-center on the two floats. This traditional position gives a good view of the sail plan, but is a little penalizing for certain harbor maneuvers. With the engine controls on starboard, docking on port becomes less straightforward.
The helm station is equipped with a hexagonal wheel, a Goïot model which is a little surprising, but breaks with the monotony of circular bars.
Each station is fitted with a bimini to protect the helmsman. This option, rather unattractive in our opinion, is not really justified. Indeed, on this type of catamaran, the helmsman is very often replaced by the autopilot. Long hours at the helm are a thing of the past, as watchkeeping can be carried out from the shelter of the saloon or cockpit.
Accessible maneuvers
As far as sail handling is concerned, all ropes return to 2 pianos near the helm stations. The mainsail, on the other hand, remains on the aft beam with a track and a conventional traveller. This low position requires a few precautions for the crew - watch your fingers when the traveler moves from one side to the other! - has the advantage of requiring no reinforcement on the cap to support the load of the sheet. Less reinforcement means less weight... The system is also more accessible in the event of a blockage.
A functional bow area, not to mention comfortable anchoring
The tour continues with a visit to the front beach. This is a clear beach, with two large trampolines. Access to the foredeck is via the deck hatches. They give access to 2 large storage areas.
For the show presentation, the Nautitech 48 Open was fitted with cushions, transforming the foredeck into a particularly comfortable lounge - a good idea that avoids the heavy foredeck, offering comfort without penalizing the weight estimate.
Between the bows, the boat is fitted with a classic bowsprit for fitting downwind headsails.
2 steps provide easy access to the mast step and mainsail when handling the lazy-bag. The boom, very low to the deckhouse, is easily accessible. Note the self-tacking jib track, a standard feature on this model.
The deckhouse is covered with solar panels that can be walked on when manoeuvring.
A vast outdoor living space
Back to the cockpit, where two tables can be folded out to create a large dining table for 8 (or more!) guests.
The cockpit is large, with various areas for privacy. If required, it can be closed at the sides with canvas.
In front of the helm station, but isolated from the cockpit by the side enclosure, is a meridienne which seems to be an ideal position for reading or resting, well sheltered from the deckhouse, but still benefiting from the outside.
Elegant, clever interiors
But the magic of the Nautitech 48, like that of its smaller brothers, lies in the link between cockpit and saloon... The famous notion that gives this catamaran its Open designation.
In the saloon, the bar separates the dining area on the right from the navigation area on the left. A small table is always on hand for bad weather. The U-shaped galley is large and practical.
The Nautitech 48 is equipped with a real chart table facing the road. Note the leather finish, demonstrating the shipyard's commitment to premium boats.
Moving down to port, we arrive in the owner's hull. Its double bed occupies the entire width of the hull, with small steps for easy access. This cabin is fitted with numerous storage compartments.
A sort of chest of drawers extends the cabin's equipment.
Pull out the tray, and it transforms into a desk for those who want to unfold their computer for a video, for example.
This hull is equipped with a separate toilet with a small washbasin.
At the front, a splendid shower and double washbasin, reserved for owners.
On starboard, the bed is the same width as that of the owners, but the cabin is more cramped, as the hull also includes another cabin forward. The corridor shares its volume with a toilet and a washroom.
The guest toilet also has its own double washbasin.
The front cabin can be fitted out, as shown here, with three beds. The first, at the top, can be folded against the bulkhead, and the last, folded here, transforms the cabin into a double-berth cabin. This makes it possible to modulate the boat's functions. In fact, the shipyard's communicators have dubbed this cabin the "Smartroom Flexibility".
To complete the tour, we enter the engine hold. Accessible from the cockpit, the engine is located under the bed of the aft cabins. Accessibility remains good, even if you have to crawl underneath to reach it without dismantling the cabins.
The advantage of a 48-foot catamaran
Disembarking from the Nautitech 48 Open, you get the feeling of a well-executed catamaran with a masterly finish. The size of 48 feet plays a big part in the feeling of well-being on board, which is more difficult to achieve on a smaller yacht.
In terms of price, this catamaran is advertised in the version shown and visited at ?1,127,510 ex VAT. For this price, the boat is ready to go with a gennaker, a flexiteek finish in the cockpit and complete cockpit closures. Mattresses and sunbeds are also included.
